CFO - Real Estate Investment Manager

CFO - REIM - OUR CLIENT is a high-performing, vertically integrated real estate business with a reputation for delivering exceptional returns through operational excellence. Since its inception, the business has partnered with institutional and private capital to acquire, manage, and develop commercial and mixed-use real estate assets across the UK.

With a sharp focus on value creation and in-house execution capabilities spanning investment, development, and property management, our client has tripled its AUM over the past few years and continues to expand rapidly. With a national operational footprint, the business is entering an exciting new phase of growth.

Our client is seeking a commercially minded and strategically driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join the executive leadership team. This is a pivotal Board-level appointment with responsibility for leading the entire finance function and playing a central role in shaping business strategy and investor engagement.

• Partner with the CEO and Board to drive group strategy, business performance, and value creation.
• Contribute to investment decisions and commercial direction at Investment Committee level.
• Lead and oversee fund, group and property finance.

• Oversee group financial reporting, forecasting, budgeting, and KPI frameworks.
• Ensure robust financial controls and full regulatory compliance (including FCA requirements).
• Manage audit, tax, risk, and compliance functions across the group.

• Lead financial structuring and debt origination for real estate investments.
• Manage relationships with lenders and oversee the ongoing management of debt facilities.

• Identify and implement finance system enhancements and automation opportunities.
• Lead finance transformation initiatives and elevate team performance across all finance areas.

• Maintain strong relationships with investors, lenders, and capital partners.
• Ensure timely, transparent, and accurate reporting to all stakeholders.

The successful candidate will be a high-calibre finance leader with experience operating in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial real estate environment. They will combine commercial acumen with strong technical expertise and have a track record of building and leading high-performing finance teams.

• Chartered Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience.
• Previous CFO or senior finance leadership role within the real estate sector.
• Strong understanding of institutional capital, debt structuring, and FCA-regulated businesses.
• Demonstrated experience in deal execution and lender engagement.
• Proven leadership in finance transformation, systems implementation, and team development.
• Highly credible at Board level, with excellent stakeholder and communication skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to operate strategically and tactically.

• Background / exposure to private equity or fund management structures.
• Experience in managing complex investor relationships, including family offices and institutions.
• Proven delivery of operational efficiencies through digital and AI-enabled tools.